Tensions surrounding the Freedom of Speech

To say that recent dramatic events in Paris, Copenhagen underline that there are different perspectives on “saying what you think”, is an understatement. While the Freedom of Speech is cherished in democracies around the globe, what about the impact of words or messages?

How can we understand the slippery slope into contradictions since “ no, you can’t just say ‘anything’ ”. Take for example slander or inciting hatred. Don’t try to deny the Holocaust in Germany or insult a policeman in the Netherlands for that matter. Dutch right wing politician, Geert Wilders also managed to get himself in trouble. And most would think twice before trying out new swear words on their own grandmother. To get to the heart of the contradictions and tangible tensions surrounding the freedom of speech.

Dr. Anja Mihr, (Associate Professor Netherlands Institute of Human Rights (SIM) Faculty of Law, Governance and Economics Utrecht University) will look at the conceptualisation of rights. What can a political philosophy perspective on the building blocks of societies tell us about the current tensions we see around the freedom of speech? Join Studium Generale cooperating with WUR students active in Amnesty International to explore this issue.